Corel updates two product lines

Avoids the curse of 13

By Ben Camm-Jones | 18 January 06

Corel yesterday announced updated versions of two of its key products, CorelDraw Graphics Suite and WordPerfect Office.

They will be known as CorelDraw Graphics Suite X3 and WordPerfect Office X3. Although each succeeds the twelfth version in its respective product line, Corel has decided to avoid referring to either of them as version 13.0.

CorelDraw Graphics Suite X3 aims to provide similar tools to design professionals as Adobe's Creative Suite at a fraction of the price. It boasts more than 40 enhancements from its predecessor, including a feature called PowerTrace that allows users to convert bitmaps into editable vector graphics. A redesigned crop tool means areas of objects can be cut out whether the user is working with bitmaps or vector graphics.

WordPerfect Office X3 also pitches itself against a mighty opponent: Microsoft's Office. With several enhancements including a refreshed interface and new email client, it is intended to provide a higher level of compatibility with Microsoft's industry-standard products.

Again the focus is on offering value for money. "Now customers can choose a feature-rich office suite that supports today's most widely used open and proprietary file formats for up to 60 percent less than the cost of Microsoft Office," said Richard Carriere, general manager for Office Productivity at Corel.

There are three versions of WordPerfect Office: the Standard Edition, a cut-down Home Edition and the Student and Teacher Edition, aimed exclusively at the education market.

CorelDraw Graphics Suite X3 will cost £387 including VAT for the full product or £175 as an upgrade from a previous version, and is due to go on sale on 8 February. WordPerfect Office Home Edition will cost £69, the Standard Edition £276 and the Student and Teacher Edition will be £100. All versions are available online now.